Toshiba Implements Corporate Environmental Initiative

As part of a global environmental initiative being undertaken by its parent company, Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, CA) is introducing environmental programs to help reduce its energy-oriented carbon dioxide emissions and non–carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions by 2010. To date, the company reports that its green efforts include the following.

Reducing power use and emissions from its headquarters: Toshiba is retrofitting its headquarters; introducing electronics with the Energy Star logo, which is used to promote energy-efficient products; and publishing interoffice communications that offer energy-conservation tips.

Reducing emissions in logistics: Over the next three years, the company is replacing its entire fleet of sales and service sedans with hybrid cars.

Recycling: The company is recycling or reusing products that are either defective or being replaced by customers. It is also working toward a goal of sending zero waste to landfill from its headquarters. Toshiba has put into place recycle containers and has promoted their use through employee educational materials.

Green shipping materials: Equipment and repair parts received from Japan are shipped with packaging that meets standards put forth by the European Union's Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. Repackaging and shipping of parts from Toshiba is also accomplished with RoHS materials.